Staying Healthy in Autumn
In TCM, each season in the calendar has its own distinct characteristics, far beyond what we are used to in the west. Since ancient times, this medicine has been intrinsically linked up with nature’s energy and patterns. Every single component of Chinese Medicine is based on nature’s forces, and organized as such.
Autumn is perhaps the season where we are most aware of the environment and how it can affect our health. I love the transition to cooler, crisper weather but as an acupuncturist I am also noticing the body and mind patterns that relate to fall months in Chinese Medicine.
What does the Autumn season mean in Chinese Medicine?
Fall is a season that is associated with change and transformation in Chinese Medicine. It is a time when the plants are done growing and turn inward – into a dormant state. The movement is one from yang to yin energy.
It is a time when the body and mind are naturally inclined to let go of what is no longer needed and to focus on what is essential. This is reflected in the changes that occur in nature during this season, such as the shedding of leaves from trees and the preparation of animals for hibernation.
The Metal Element in Chinese Medicine
The autumn season is represented by the element of Metal, which is characterized by qualities such as strength, clarity, and precision. The Metal Element craves structure and organization. It’s simultaneously strong and yet it is also maleable.
Metal is all about letting go and releasing what is no longer needed. This action is swift, effective and not emotional.
In a health context, this can mean evaluating current strategies and letting go of those that are no longer effective or necessary. This can be difficult, but it is necessary for growth and success.It represents the energy of contraction and consolidation. It’s a time of letting go and releasing what no longer serves us.
What organ system is important in the Fall season?
In the Fall months, the organ systems that are most affected are the Lungs and the Large Intestine. To most of you, these organs may seem unrelated, but they are partner organ systems in TCM – and both are easily affected by the environment.
In a sense, they are also seen as ‘boundaries’ between our bodies and the world. Fall is a time to support the lungs and large intestine, and also exercise care to protect them. This can be done through practices such as deep breathing exercises, eating foods that are high in fiber, and staying hydrated.
How does this show up in real life?
Although we tend to think of the Spring as a time for new beginnings and a fresh start – Fall is a great time to get inspired, get organized and perhaps release what we no longer need. This may be a feeling around ‘going back to school (or work, for some)’ or a general return to ‘business’ after a more relaxed summer.
I know I’ve bought some fresh notebooks and felt the urge to label some stuff in the past week. It could be a time to release physical items, old feelings, habits or thoughts that no longer serve us.
What shows up in symptoms and health issues, is also what relates to the patterns of the Fall in Chinese Medicine. It is not uncommon to feel an increase in issues that relate to the Lungs and Large Intestines such as:
- Coughs
- Allergies
- Skin concerns (especially dryness, as skin relates to both Lung and Large Intestine health)
- Grief and sadness (if not processing well)
- Constipation
- Issues around personal boundaries
Luckily, it is also the ideal time to treat any issues that relate to the above.
5 Ways an Acupuncturist stays healthy in the fall
Avoid raw foods
For now, the time for raw food salads and smoothies is over. To me, the fresh greens that tasted great in summer months suddenly feel cold and not as comforting. To nourish and strengthen the digestive organs, TCM typically always focuses on warm, cooked foods – but especially once we get into the colder months. And especially for anyone who tends to get IBS type symptoms easily. I love the return to soups, broths and stews.
Wear a scarf
Protecting against wind is the #1 prevention method in Chinese Medicine, and the back of the neck is very easily affected (especially in times of transitional weather). Starting in mid-Sept and even on warmer days, there is always a scarf packed in my bag just in case.
Skin brushing
Skin brushing is my go-to to feel energized year-round, but I make it a regular routine in fall months. Done correctly, it can help gently move circulation of lymphatic fluid, helping to nourish skin, eliminate waste and boost our bodies immune response. I use a soft, gentle brush and focus more on opening up the flow of lymphatic fluid (rather than exfoliating skin).
Getting acupuncture and cupping treatments
Both can help relax us as well as boost the body’s immune response. Acupuncture has been shown to positively influence white and red blood cell count. Cupping (especially fire cupping) just feels amazing, especially if experiencing upper body tension with colder temperatures. The most important thing to remember with post-cupping care in cool weather: keep warm and be sure to wear a scarf or hoodie post treatment!
Get organized
It feels like the natural time to get organized. For me this means gently releasing of a few things I no longer need, in order to make room for what matters now.
REFERENCES
The Effects of Acupuncture on White Blood Cell Count
Effect of Acupuncture Treatment on the Immune Function Impairment Found in Anxious Women
